Rüsselsheim. While OPC stands for Opel Performance Center, car enthusiasts know OPC is more than just an acronym – it is an expression of pure passion. OPC showcases just how much sporty potential and technological expertise is in Opel cars. The OPC versions evoke emotion and are the top‑of‑the-line variants in their model range for driving dynamics.

Currently they come as a frisky three-door Corsa, a racy version of the elegant Insignia sedan and hatch; and as a sporty Insignia wagon. More models are nearing the starting line.

Opel Insignia OPC: Sedan and “Sport Wagon of the Year 2009”

Dynamic and passionate driving has an all-new meaning at Opel since mid-2009 when the Insignia OPC variants were launched. The 2.8 V6 turbo gasoline engine with an output of 239 kW/325 hp makes these cars the most powerful Opel production vehicles of all time.

With six-speed manual gearbox, the OPC variants are on offer in the form of sedan, hatchback and Sports Tourer. The strong torque of 400 Nm ensures abundant pulling power even at lower engine speeds. With this engine performance, the Insignia OPC sedans reach a top speed of 250 km/h (restricted) and sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in six seconds. Even the acceleration is impressive: It takes the Insignia OPC a mere 7.1 seconds to race from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear.

For the first time, the OPC portfolio is fitted with the Brembo calliper brakes and the perforated 355 mm disc on the front axle, as well as with the Adaptive 4x4 system and its electronic rear limited slip differential (eLSD). The four-wheel drive management unit has been recalibrated to adapt torque distribution to the sporty philosophy of the OPC.

Also standard is the FlexRide suspension: The mechatronic system not only adapts to driving situation and driving style but also to the driver’s preferences. The standard mode puts the vehicle in a high comfort setting, while the special Sport mode adds a notable extra in agility. The OPC setting places drivers in a third dimension: Steering is more direct, the gas pedal speaks clearly and the chassis turns on to maximum handling.

The High Performance Strut (HiPerStrut) front suspension architecture is designed especially for the Insignia OPC. With a reduced kingpin inclination and a shorter spindle length. HiPerStrut reduces torque steering reactions, improves grip and increases cornering power, offering Insignia OPC drivers the crisp feel they expect, with enhanced precision and feedback.

The car looks as hot as it performs, with tiger tooth-shaped air intakes in the front bumper, rocker panels, an integrated rear spoiler and specially designed 19” (245/40) OPC wheels. Twenty-inch wheels with 255/35 can be ordered. Satin chrome finishes and expressive dual exhaust pipes integrated into the rear bumper add to the appeal.

Inside, designers created a sporty dressing, with a dark headliner, a special shifter and a flat-bottomed, performance steering wheel. The Recaro front seats with optional four-way lumbar support and cushion extension are the first high performance seats in the industry to receive the most coveted seal of excellence from the independent orthopedic experts from Aktion Gesunder Rücken (Action for Healthy Backs).

So much sportiness packed in one beautiful car prompted readers of AutoBild magazine to crown the Insignia OPC Sports Tourer: Sports Wagon of the Year 2009.

Opel Corsa OPC: Lively Sprinter on the OPC Track

Just as the Insignia OPC is the latest sporty top version for Opel, the Corsa OPC of the fourth Corsa generation is the quick little sprinter. With top-level agility and vehicle control, the powerhouse ensures pure driving fun. The 1.6-liter turbo engine with 141 kW/192 hp accelerates the three-door car from zero to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and enables a top speed of 225 km/h, while accelerating from 80 to 120 km/h takes just 6.7 seconds in fifth gear. This gives the sporty car superb propulsion power in all driving situations. It comes with a six-speed transmission as standard, and the maximum torque of 230 Nm can be temporarily increased by 15 percent to 266 Nm via an 'overboost' function. The Corsa OPC requires a modest 7.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers.

The top sporty Corsa model is also a real eye-catcher. The roof spoiler, as well as the powerful front and rear aprons with distinctive gill-like air intakes and outlets give the OPC a look that reflects its top performance.

Elements such as the darkly contrasting diffuser with integrated, centrally located triangular tailpipe and specially designed exterior mirrors are typical sports car characteristics. This is also echoed in the Corsa OPC’s interior, which is color-coordinated to the exterior. In addition to the chrome-ringed instruments with red pointers and center console in piano lacquer finish, the flat-bottomed leather steering wheel with a mark at its crown and the aluminum pedals are especially eye-catching. The Recaro bucket seats with integrated head restraints provide optimal side support and protect both the driver and front passenger with integrated side airbags.

The Corsa OPC’s chassis was designed for maximum precision via spring/dampener tuning and a stronger stabilizer. The body is also 10 mm lower than the Corsa Sport version. The standard ESP system, which can be deactivated, has also been tuned to its peak. The Corsa OPC comes with 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R17 tires ex works, while 18-inch rims and size 225 tires are available as an option. The large 16-inch brake system with internally ventilated disk brakes (308 mm front, 264 mm rear) ensures strong deceleration.